Why and how I started a community for female start-up founders

Christina Teo tells Tech in Aisa that the community will stay with you if you are authentic

In the days of Cc:Mail I would print articles on new technology and place the articles on all stakeholders’ work desks on Sundays so that my suggested readings were the first thing they would notice. I quickly became top of mind even though I had no technology background when I started. 

I thought to myself, “I know this!” That’s how SAW (#StartupAsiaWomen) was born in December 2016.

I have been so encouraged with my head start that I put together a few pointers here to inspire others.

1. Purpose

Putting yourself out there starts with a purpose. Have a clear idea as to why you’re doing it. Pay attention to what you and your target audience can get from it. 

2. Story

If you let your target audience hear your story, it will be easier for them to decide whether they’ll commit to you. 

3. Authenticity

The community will stay with you if you are authentic. What you say, how you think, the vision you paint, and the milestones you create will all have to gel cohesively and be consistent with a set of values you personally subscribe to. 

4. Audience

The principle of casting your net wide enough at first then gradually filtering is essential to gain some initial traction and sample base for you to test. I knew that targeting start-ups naturally leaves out many businesses and a gender-focused segment all the more narrows my target audience. Striking this balance was tantamount to keeping my purpose authentic.

5. Differentiation

It is practical to do some tests after doing research. Starting with an authentic purpose, knowing what is out there, and finding your own niche enhance the story you will tell. 
This is an excerpt from Tech in Asia. You can read the full article here